A cumulative review and analysis of 27 empirical investigations that assessed the preferences and choices of individuals with severe or profound mental retardation found that, since 1978, a technology has been evolving that can assess preference and choice via six types of participant responses across a variety of stimulus presentations. Research…

A survey of teachers revealed that principals who want to promote classroom instruction must talk openly and freely with teachers about teaching and learning, provide time and encourage peer connections for teachers, empower teachers, embrace the challenge of teachers' professional development, and lead and motivate teachers. (MLH)

An offshoot of a Denver, Colorado, alcohol and drug abuse prevention program, Blue Pony reclaims lacrosse as a Native American sport, and uses it to bridge tribal differences and promote cultural awareness, self-empowerment, and healthy lifestyles among urban Native American children. Discusses the game's history, a literacy program utilizing…

Follows the progress of "negotiation" (a force for democratizing the curriculum) in Tasmanian English classrooms, claiming it (1) allows a fluid space where teachers and students can work together; (2) provides an alternative to direct and indirect political influence over curriculum construction; and (3) has the potential to empower…

Examines participation issues of (British) department heads in whole-school decision-making processes to determine whether such participation represents true empowerment. Three models emerged, with varied results. Collegiality offers many persuasive benefits but is difficult to attain. Hierarchical and horizontal structures' effectiveness needs…

Explored the perspectives of graduate students (n=18) toward their learning in a course in higher and continuing education which used three collaborative groups in a problem-based instructional approach. Identified a core theme, ownership of knowledge, and three embedded subthemes: (1) group dynamics, (2) tutor feedback, and (3) metacognitive…

Current efforts to create safe schools concentrate on peace-keeping and peace-making strategies (negative peace), that may enforce mutual mistrust and marginalize "suspicious" persons. Peace building tries to build beloved communities by providing nonviolent ways to empower students, model appropriate behaviors, and manage conflicts.…

Interviews with 41 women from the coalfields of southwestern Virginia and eastern Kentucky indicate that traditional women devoted their lives to their families. Contemporary women who did not attend college identified with their mothers but wanted financial independence. Contemporary women who attended college identified with their fathers but…

Discusses the development of self-advocacy in adolescents with learning disabilities and describes eight guidelines for creating collaborative communications among teachers, parents, and students. Guidelines stress the importance of using portfolios for monitoring progress, encouraging parents to volunteer, having students evaluate themselves, and…

The Community Action Scholars Program at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee provides education and training in organizational design and leadership to grassroots organizations and neighborhood residents. Insights drawn and lessons learned about university-community collaboration during this experience have the ultimate goal of empowering…

Computer technology can empower students if they have the tools to find their way through print and online sources. This article describes how a reference librarian and a faculty instructor collaborated to teach research strategies and critical thinking skills (including analysis and evaluation of resources) in a large university classroom using a…

Anecdotes of adventure activities with children and staff at two Russian camps demonstrate that Russian people, historically dependent on strong leaders, are fascinated by experiential education because the core concepts of shared leadership and cooperation disrupt old models, ask them to look anew at their capabilities, and create a sense of…

Discusses several postulates of empowerment theory particularly relevant to guiding the practice and analysis of substance-abuse prevention and education programs. The empowerment model predicts that the empowerment of students and staff will increase both the effectiveness and the longevity of programs. (EMK)

Examines aspects of initial teacher education and continuing professional development in Scotland against the backdrop of McCrone Report recommendations on teaching conditions. Discusses teachers' attitudes toward their own professional development; the nature of professional knowledge, skills, and values; and some principles to promote genuine…

Presents staff development activities to enhance parental involvement in Head Start programs. Outlines specific activities, format, contexts, materials requirements, and instructions addressing the following areas: (1) staff role in empowering parents through involvement; and (2) understanding and recognizing empowered parents. (SD)